on 2/25/03 7:34 PM, Brandon Ives at monkeylad@mac.com wrote:
> Here's your really basic physics equation:
> F=M*A
> F= Force
> M= Mass (kg)
> A= Acceleration (m/s squared)
> Let's call A 5 and have it be static.
>
> 5*6.8(15 lb bike)= 34
> 5*9(20 lb bike)= 45
>
> We all know mass isn't really the same as weight, but for the basic
> question of if a 15 or 20 pound bike performs better it'll work. The
> 15 pound bike takes less force to move down the road, thus performs
> better.
Your equation illustrates the point perfectly. During most bicycle riding, the acceleration is zero. Now, do the math. Even during sprinting, the acceleration experienced on a bike is very small.
Todd Kuzma
Heron Bicycles
Tullio's Big Dog Cyclery
LaSalle, IL
http://www.heronbicycles.com/
http://www.tullios.com/